In January 2015 I had an ovarian cyst removed, after being on my bad side for about four years. Leading up to the surgery I had been experiencing abdomen pain about every three months that would leave me curled up on the floor, missing days of work, scaring my husband half to death, and me questioning ever giving birth one day. About a year after my first experience of extreme pain it was identified that I had an ovarian cyst.I put up with the recurring pain for about 4 years because I always survived, just barely, I didn’t want to deal with doctor stuff, and I always hoped it would just get better on it’s own.
I said enough after I had a close call while experiencing an “episode” while driving home by myself one night. While driving I started feeling all the horrible symptoms that go along with cysts popping, and ended up in the closest parking lot….hurling.
I put myself at risk and the other drivers around me, by trying be tough and avoiding what my body was trying to tell me.That was it, I was going to get to the bottom of whatever was going on. I was tired of the unexpected pain that would come in the middle of driving, at work, or right before big plans.
For about four years I was most likely undergoing recurring cysts about every 3 months. After surgery the Doc wanted to put me on medication that I wasn’t totally stoked about because 1) it wasn’t natural 2) it was a band aid for the real problem.
The real problem: hormone imbalance.
Like mother like daughter, I did extensive research on natural, healthy alternatives for hormone imbalances.
One of the lifestyle changes that I made to help decrease ovarian cyst growth was to avoid hormones in what I eat and what I put on my skin. I had to start looking at my skin like an organ, digesting ingredients just like eating.
What was I feeding my skin? I started looking at the ingredients in my lotion, soap, face scrub, shampoo, conditioner, everything, that ever touched my body! I’m not an expert but I am learning, and my products are becoming more and more “whole.”
Because of this shift and other lifestyle changes, my ovarian pain has been non-existence! Now I just got to keep it up!! This is a huge weight of our shoulders!
So, I wanted to share some of the toiletries I’m currently using! I switch up the products every once in awhile because I’m still looking for the best “one.”
Products:
Broner’s, 4-in-1 Sugar Peppermint Organic Pump Soap
The scent of this soap makes you feel extremely clean and refreshed! Careful not to get it on your eyes, the peppermint is strong!
Bronner’s, Lavender Hand Sanitizer
This is my favorite purse accessory, and lavender is my favorite.
Deep Steep, Nourishing Volume Shampoo, full body
It took me awhile to find a good natural shampoo that lathers. This is my favorite one so far!
Deep Steep, Nourishing Volume Conditioner, full body
My hair feels so great, full, and clean after using this conditioner!
Acure, Brightening Facial Scrub, all skin types
I’ve used face wash before, but I prefer the scrub. Don’t let the un attractive green color turn you away!
Andalou Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science, Mandarin Vanilla Shower Gel
Since I love lavender I usualy go for that scent, but I decided to switch it up with my shower gel and I’m so glad I did! The vanilla balances the citrus just perfectly! It’s cozy and refreshing!
Andalou Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science, Lavender Shea Body Butter
I’m still on the hunt for my favorite lotion, but this one is my favorite so far!
Andalou Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science, BB All-in One Beauty Balm, sheer tint with SPF 30
This is a face lotion, tint, and sun block all in one and I love it! It looks good as is or with a little bit of powder on top!
Trader Joes Natural Facial Cleansing Pads
I’m still on the hunt for a cleansing wipe. I may just end up using a Dr. Bronner’s soap and towel, after I run out of wipes. But these wipes are handy and convenient!
I hope you continue your ownresearch, and find some products to add to your getting ready routine! As you learn more, don’t stress more. Take all the information and just buy with balance.*
To learn more about specific ingredients that are in cosmetics, that are suggested to avoid check out these links:
http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/whats-in-my-products/products/http://organicbeautytalk.com/ingredients-to-avoid/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/vanessa-cunningham/dangerous-beauty-products_b_4168587.htmlhttp://thegreenbeautyguide.com
Check out this app! It scans barcodes on products and tells you what is in it, gives you reviews, and rates it!Think Dirty: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/think-dirty-cosmetic-ingredients/id687176839?mt=8